Thread: Shopping for 30 hp util with loader, opinions?

I'm in the research phase of buying a tractor in the 30 hp range. Must haves are a quick disconnect front loader than can safely handle 1000-1200 lbs, and a 6 ft belly or rear mower. So far I've looked at Kubotas & New holland, and of the 2 the NH Boomer TC33DA , which was quoted around 23k with FL, belly mower, & Ag tires & front grill protector, was my preference.
My business partner suggests I check out JD's as well, but I haven't had the time to visit the dealer yet. JD's website has me a bit confused with all the different models. It looks like JD's quick connect FL is a better design than the NH, but I wondering if the (anticipated) higher cost of JD's is worth it?

The machine will be used for a major revamping of my new 3 acre property. Lots of old scrub growth to remove, stone walls to build, some regrading, about 2 acres of grass (now all rough & full of ruts, rocks, etc).

You've got a couple different options with Deere. If you're looking for a gear drive you've got the 790 and 990. The 790 is 27hp and 24 at the PTO. The 990 is 40hp and 35 at the PTO. The 990 is significantly larger than the 790. As far as hydrostat models in your range, the 3320 and 3520 are the two closest. The 3320 is 32.5hp and 25 at the PTO, while the 3520 is 37hp and 30 at the PTO. As far as prices, expect to pay close to how I've broken it down for you.

I just bought a used 1700 Ford yesterday but I was looking at new ones recently. I had the New Holland TC33D (33 hp) with 4wd and loader priced to me at $19000 and the 4310 (32 hp) John Deere with 4wd and loader at $17800. The 4310 is the same hp as the 3320 but a 2004 model. Check around and you might find one of these.

I can't say which is better, but our local equipment rental shop has had a TC33 (gear drive) for rent for years. I've used it a couple times, it's a nice hard working tractor. I used it to get rid of a bunch of scrub, few year old alders, black berries, some other nasty thorny brush. It would push through and scrap them up easily with the loader. I can't say it's better than the Kubota or JD not having used all three, but I wouldn't have any problem buying the NH if I were looking to buy in that range.

The gear drive works, but if you're going to be doing a lot of back and forth loader work I can see how the hydro would make things go smoother and faster. If you expect that kind of work I'd definately look into getting the hydro.

Thanks for the replies. I've been to busy to post back sooner.
I ended up going a bit bigger, ended up with Kubota 4340, 853 loader, & woods 72" rear finish mower. I couldn't even find a JD on a lot to go see & kick the tires, much less get a firm answer on when I could take delivery if I ordered. The Kubota looks to be built plenty solid for my intended use (and more), and the price was great. It gets delivered Sat 5/21, can't ask for better dealer service than that.
David